Library Trends

Kicking off our 5 part video series on libraries, Library Trends is the first topic our experts here at Kodet address. Today, libraries are uniquely positioned to reimagine how they might better serve communities in the future. No longer are they simply a place for holding books and information, but rather a hub for community programs, learning, and social interactions. From virtual reality to hands-on cooking classes and everything in between, libraries can offer communities new ways to see, experience and understand ideas like never before. By embracing new technology and thinking outside the box when it comes to unique program offerings, the 21st Century library is on the forefront of societal trends and keeps pace with an ever changing world. Pleasant Hill Library in Hastings, MN is the library featured in our library video series, for more information on that project – click here!

Virtual Reality in Architecture

VIRTUAL REALITY IN ARCHITECTURE Even if you are not a computer techy person, you have probably seen those strange headset things people put on to be in a virtual environment. Usually these are part of a gaming system that can create a very realistic digital environment called Virtual Reality (VR). The gaming industry is pushing computer manufacturers to improve computer processing speeds that make it affordable for the general public, including smaller architecture firms, to purchase computers that can handle the VR demands. EVOLUTION Virtual reality is not new for architects though. Drawings and models have been tools architects have used to develop their designs for centuries. Perspectives, isometrics, and three-dimensional (3D) models are the traditional techniques architects have used to visualize a space and relay that vision to a client or community. As technology has evolved, these visual representations have gone from hand drawings and physical models to three-dimensional computer-generated images and 3D printed models to fully digital immersive experiences (Virtual Reality) where one can almost feel like they are walking through a space. The evolution of 3D representation allows designers more tools to help clients understand the design of a future space. Each space and client are different and should be evaluated on the best use of technology to satisfy the owner’s needs. Architects strive to design spaces that are functional for their clients, and the more the client understands the space and can understand the design intent the higher probability the space will perform as the client envisions. VISUALIZATION A fully interactive virtual reality experience through a headset can be an unsettling or uncomfortable experience for some and designers must know the best approach for each client or community. Depending on the building type and location, many people can see a 3D image and understand how it […]

Debunking Preservation Myths

Historic properties enrich our cities and capture our history. Don’t let myths about extra costs and over-regulation outweigh the benefits of undertaking your historic project! Historic buildings can’t be sustainable. FALSE. Several well-known historic buildings have been renovated to meet LEED standards. The U.S. Green Building Council recognizes historic buildings “represent significant embodied energy and cultural value”. LEED offers credits for the preservation or adaptive reuse of historic materials and features. New technologies and products make it possible to integrate sustainable solutions that improve the performance of a historic property. The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation include special Guidelines on Sustainability. Work with a historic architect to determine if any of the following modifications could improve building performance without permanently damaging historic materials: Windows | Restore windows by replacing putty or weather-stripping to create an air-tight window opening. Interior Storm Window | Installing interior storm windows can nearly double the window’s insulating value. A compression fit assembly can be installed without any additional hardware or holes in the historic frame. Insulation | Historic buildings may not have any insulation. Blown-In insulation products can be installed into walls through small holes or attic access to improve energy performance. HVAC | After testing the existing system for efficiency, a new HVAC system can be installed as necessary within the replacement cycle. High velocity air ducts have a slim profile and can be retrofit into existing walls to avoid visible ductwork or additional soffits. Restoration | Inherently sustainable features, like skylights and operable windows, naturally improve occupant comfort since they predate electricity. A designated historic building can’t be altered for ADA accessibility. FALSE. With the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, access to properties open to the public is a civil right. This doesn’t mean every property is required to install an […]

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd | Preserving Character

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD | PRESERVING CHARACTER The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Minneapolis had begun to turn the page into a new chapter, which called for an adaptation to their sacred space to meet contemporary needs. Originally built over 65 years ago, the renovation aimed to uphold the historic integrity and respectfully adapting the Vic Gilbertson, FAIA mid-century modern church to meet current programmatic needs. The Kodet Team understood the importance of this historic restoration and through carefully studying sketches and the building’s artwork we were able to develop a better understanding for the back-story and connection to the details. Integral to the renovation was the idea of strengthening the bond between the church and the congregation, which reflects the celebration of their faith and community. The ever-present theme was preservation + improving functionality to serve current and future generations. ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTION The renovation and restoration looked how to make the best use of the buildings great art and architecture. A key element was to connect the existing sanctuary to the existing courtyard originally separated by brick wall with stained glass windows. By removing the south wall of the nave, we were able to expand the space by creating large custom wood sliding doors. These grand doors open the worship space to the new catwalk, which features a balcony overlooking the updated exterior courtyard. The worship expansion and inclusion of these custom doors incorporated the relocated original stained glass and allows a full view over the courtyard and introduces natural light into the sanctuary. Most importantly, we were able to creatively save and utilize the existing stained glass panels. By using materials original to the building and combining this with the glass, the changes transformed the church from an introverted interior focused space to a […]

Little Free Library

LITTLE FREE LIBRARY Recently, the City of Lakes Rotary Club collaborated with the team here at Kodet to create a unique Little Free Library for a Project for Pride in Living site. The Little Free Library has gained worldwide attention as it aims to promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide. Members of the Project for Pride in Living collected and delivered hundreds of books to start off their two new Little Free Library Sites. Their goal to build a sense of community rang true as the Kodet team and Rotary Group put their heads to create their own Little Free Library. The team was comprised of Sean Leintz, Mandi Tauferner, Kelly Martinez, and Ken Stone. Early on in the process, each member of the team created sketches as to each would approach the project. After reviewing the creative sketches the team decided on a colorful library with a unique roof. Originally the design sought to have 2-levels, with sliding shelves moved with a “rotary” wheel incorporating the City of Lakes Rotary Club. In the end, the team collaborated to create a library which features a creative curved roof with pops of acrylic colored panels for windows. As you open the colored panels to grab a book the user is able to move the shelf back and forth to grab the book of his or her choice. Below are some images which depict the process the team went through in sketching and creating detailed plans for the project. Sketch by Sean Figuring out the specs! Materials + Details created by Mandi Rendering of the Final Product by Mandi! The team constructing the Little Free Library We would like to thank the Little Free Library organization and Project for Pride in Living the opportunity to work […]

Ripple Island Cabin

Ripple Island Cabin designed by Ken Stone was recently awarded “Home of the Month” by the Star Tribune. This small, one room summer cabin was built on a portion of a rocky island on Burntside Lake in northern Minnesota. The island and lake have a cherished family history for the owners, with generations spending summers on the quintessential northern Minnesota lake. The owners wanted a simple structure in the woods, protected from strong winds yet with abundant daylight and views to the majestic surroundings. Specifically, the owners asked that the little structure have “lift” to harness the brilliant northern sunlight. The south-facing window wall provides daylight throughout the day, warming the space in the spring and fall without the need for supplemental heat. The full glass doors open along the eintre wall so the cabin feels more like a screen porch, capturing the breezes and views of the lake. The pine interior is reminiscent of traditional north woods cabins. The exterior corrugated metal siding relates to simple agricultural buildings common in the landscape of rural Minnesota. And the stone surround at the fireplace seems to be from the rock outcroppings found on the island. Enjoy the article found here in the Star Tribune, congratulations Ken on all of your hard work! About the Architect Working as a leader on the team, Kenneth Stone, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, CID, has over 29 years of experience in the architecture field. His experience leading programming, designing, and managing projects allows for projects that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. He uses his exceptional organizational skills and breadth of technical knowledge to coordinate the daily activities of Kodet’s team while conferring with clients to promote project goals. Ken’s expertise includes technical knowledge of current building systems. He brings a thorough understanding […]